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Smiling is a universal expression of happiness and a simple yet powerful gesture that can have a profound impact on your well-being and the world around you. While it might seem like a small act, the benefits of smiling extend far beyond just brightening up your face. Here are five compelling reasons to smile more often:

Boosts Mood and Reduces Stress: When you smile, your brain releases neurotransmitters like dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin, which are known as the "feel-good" chemicals. These natural mood enhancers can lead to a reduction in stress levels and an overall sense of well-being. Even a forced smile can trick your brain into feeling happier, proving that the simple act of smiling can be a powerful tool in managing stress. So the next time you’re having a bad morning, try a ten-second smile break!

Enhances Social Connections: Smiling is contagious. When you smile at someone, they are likely to smile back, creating a positive feedback loop that can strengthen social bonds. A genuine smile can make you appear more approachable, trustworthy, and friendly, fostering better relationships in both personal and professional settings. This can lead to increased social interactions and a more fulfilling social life.

Improves Physical Health: Believe it or not, smiling can have tangible benefits for your physical health. The act of smiling can lower your heart rate and blood pressure, promoting cardiovascular health. Moreover, the endorphins released when you smile act as natural painkillers, providing a form of pain relief. Regular smiling can also boost your immune system, making you more resilient to illnesses.

Increases Longevity: Studies have shown that individuals who smile more often tend to live longer. This could be due to the combined effects of reduced stress, improved mood, and better physical health. A positive outlook on life, often accompanied by frequent smiling, can contribute to a healthier lifestyle and greater longevity.

Enhances Productivity and Creativity: A positive emotional state, often triggered by smiling, can enhance cognitive functions such as problem-solving, decision-making, and creativity. When you're in a good mood, you're more likely to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions. This can lead to increased productivity and a more enjoyable work environment.

In conclusion, smiling is much more than just a facial expression. It's a powerful gesture that can improve your mood, health, social connections, and even your lifespan. So the next time you feel down or stressed, try flashing a smile—it's a small act that can yield big rewards.

Are you not feeling as confident about your smile? We’re here to help! With over 35 years of experience, Hester and Morris Orthodontics have been creating smiles and confidence using braces and Invisalign. Let our team help you Live Life Smiling!

School's out, and summer is finally here! While you're soaking up the sun and having fun, don't forget to take care of your smile. Here are some easy tips to maintain healthy and strong teeth throughout the summer, whether you have orthodontic treatment or not!

1. Brush and Floss Like You Mean It

Just because you're on summer break doesn't mean you get a break from brushing and flossing. Keep up your regular routine of brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. And don't forget to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles get frayed. Choose soft bristles. If you are a braces patient at Hester & Morris Orthodontics, then you know how much we prioritize brushing your teeth!

2. Choose Summer Snacks Wisely

Summer means BBQs, picnics, the pool, and lots of yummy treats. But some of your favorite snacks can be tough on your teeth. Even for Invisalign patients. Try to limit sugary drinks and snacks, and opt for healthier choices like fruits, veggies, and cheese instead. And if you do indulge, make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterward. Our braces patients can find a list of foods they should be avoiding here.

3. Don't Use Your Teeth as Tools

It can be tempting to use your teeth to open packages or loosen bottle caps, but this can put a lot of pressure on your teeth and even cause them to crack. Instead, try a small pair of scissors or a bottle opener with you.

4. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is good for your whole body, including your mouth. Staying hydrated helps keep your mouth moist and wash away any lingering food bits. Aim to drink at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water a day.

5. Don't Forget Your Check-Up

Even though it's summer, it's still important to see your dentist for a regular check-up. A lot of time parents try to schedule these appointments because you're out of school. They can catch any small problems before they become big issues. Plus, a professional cleaning will leave your smile feeling squeaky clean!

6. Wear a Mouthguard if You Play Sports

If you play sports such as soccer, go hiking, or engage in a pick-up game of basketball, always remember to wear a mouthguard. This will protect your teeth from getting chipped or knocked out in case of a fall. Additionally, it's crucial to take all necessary precautions when using ATV equipment. We have seen too many patients in our office following accidents. Stay safe!

By following these simple tips, you can keep your smile healthy and strong all summer long.

Tell us in the comments what fun things you have planned for summer! Happy smiling!

Invisalign is a popular and effective clear aligner system used for orthodontic treatment among teenagers and adults. Hester and Morris Orthodontics has a long-standing partnership with Invisalign and has witnessed the evolution of its technology over the years to create an excellent alternative to traditional braces. Dr. J Gregory Morris, the leading Invisalign expert in the area, is among the top 1% of all Invisalign Providers. When it comes to your Invisalign smile, Dr. Morris really knows his stuff!

 However, many myths surrounding it often deter people from considering it. In this blog post, we will debunk some of the most common Invisalign myths and highlight the truths supported by recent information and our experiences in the office.

Myth 1: Invisalign Only Treats Minor Alignment Issues

This is not true. Invisalign can correct many orthodontic issues, including complex bite problems. Advanced technology and customized aligners allow for treating cases that were once only manageable by traditional braces.

Myth 2: Invisalign is More Expensive Than Traditional Braces

This is depending on who your provider is. The upfront cost may be higher in some places because of lab fees, but the overall treatment cost is often comparable to traditional braces. The final price varies depending on individual treatment plans and the case's complexity. AT Hester and Morris Orthodontics Invisalign costs are often less than those with braces. Check out more about our financial information on our website.

Myth 3: Invisalign Treatment Takes Longer

Studies have shown that treatment with Invisalign can be completed up to 30% faster than treatment with fixed braces, debunking the misconception that Invisalign takes longer to achieve desired results.

Myth 4: Invisalign Aligners are Uncomfortable

Invisalign aligners are designed for comfort. They are made from a patented thermoplastic material called SmartTrack, engineered explicitly for the Invisalign system. While any orthodontic treatment can cause discomfort due to tooth movement, Invisalign aligners are more comfortable to wear.

Myth 5: Invisalign is Not as Effective as Metal Braces

Invisalign's effectiveness is comparable to traditional braces for most cases. With advancements in technology and aligner design, Invisalign can now treat complex orthodontic issues effectively.

Facts about Invisalign

- Invisalign has been around for over two decades and has treated over 16 million patients.

- The SmartTrack material used for Invisalign aligners is a medical-grade thermoplastic, ensuring safety and comfort for the wearer.

- Invisalign aligners must be worn for the recommended number of hours per day but can be removed for eating, drinking, and cleaning, which is a significant advantage over traditional braces.

- The biggest takeaway on whether Invisalign is right for you is if you can commit to wearing your aligners. Compliance is the key to success with Invisalign. Simply put, it won’t work if you don't wear it!

- Not all Invisalign treatment is the same. The quality of your smile results is based on your compliance and the experience of your provider. We recommend Invisalign treatment by an orthodontist over a general family dentist. Orthodontists undergo an additional 2-3 years of residency training and focus solely on diagnosing and treating moving teeth and aligning jaws. This makes them smile specialists.

Getting orthodontic treatment can be a big decision, but Invisalign is a great option that can help address various tooth alignment and bite issues. Don't let common myths and misconceptions keep you from exploring this versatile and effective treatment option. Always consult with an orthodontist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs. We're here to help, so don't hesitate to reach out and get the smile you deserve!

Invisalign has revolutionized the world of orthodontics by offering a clear, comfortable, and removable alternative to traditional braces. We have seen over 3,400 smiles improve at Hester and Morris Orthodontics thanks to Invisalign. However, the success of Invisalign treatment is highly dependent on patient compliance. Wearing the aligners for the recommended time is crucial to achieving the desired results efficiently and effectively.

The standard guideline suggests that Invisalign aligners should be worn for 22 to 23 hours daily. This allows the necessary forces to act on the teeth to guide them into their new positions. Failing to adhere to this rule can prolong treatment time and lead to less-than-optimal results. The better the patient wears their aligners, the better the result!

Ensuring good habits and avoiding behaviors that may interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment are also essential. Patients are advised to minimize excessive snacking, as it requires removing the aligners more frequently, which can reduce wear time. Additionally, it's essential to stay on track with orthodontist visits and aligner changes to ensure the treatment progresses as planned.

Invisalign treatment is popular for correcting misaligned teeth, poor bite alignment, and gaps between teeth. However, it is not suitable for everyone. If your child or teen is against the idea of wearing aligners at the start, it's unlikely they will put forth the effort needed in compliance.

In conclusion, while Invisalign offers a more aesthetic and comfortable alternative to traditional braces, it requires a high level of patient compliance to be successful. Following the recommended guidelines and maintaining good oral habits, patients can achieve their dream smiles with Invisalign. Our orthodontic team would love to answer all of your questions you may have about Invisalign. Call us or email us for more information!